ADVANCED SUBSPECIALTY MODULES

Course Description

A good practical knowledge of the fundamentals of anatomy is essential for the successful and safe practice of peripheral nerve block (PNB) anesthesia. Just as surgical disciplines rely on surgical anatomy, regional anesthesiologists need to have a working knowledge of the anatomy of nerves and their associated structures. In this module, the basics of peripheral nerve block anatomy necessary for successful implementation of various block techniques will be presented. Practical tips, pictures and videos will be presented during the course of the discussion to augment learning experience.

To measure learning, the module begins with a pretest and ends with a posttest. These two tests will enable participants and the PSA to determine if learning has taken place and knowledge gaps have been filled.

Course Objectives

At the end of the module participants will be able to:

1. Identify the nerves and associated structures involved in PNB2. Compare the effectiveness of different techniques and approaches to the brachial plexus for upper extremity blocks and to the lumbosacral plexus for lower extremity blocks3. Define the perioperative block technique that is appropriate for a given surgical indication

Target Audience

This module is designed for use by:

1. Anesthesiologists in training who would like to acquire the fundamentals essential to the practice of peripheral nerve block anesthesia2. Anesthesiologists (postgraduate) who would like to resume or increase their use of peripheral nerve block anesthesia by reviewing the fundamentals essential to its practice